Dengue kills one, infects more than 700 in Nakhon Ratchasima
An outbreak of dengue is spreading rapidly through four provinces in the lower Northeast, where the disease has infected more than 1,000 residents since the start of the year.
The Office of Disease Prevention and Control 9 reports that cases of the mosquito-borne disease are mounting quickly in Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Buriram and Surin.
Nakhon Ratchasima has been hit hardest with 737 dengue fever cases and one death recorded between January 1 and April 18 – a ratio of 27.92 infections per 100,000 population.
Chaiyaphum has recorded 223 cases for a ratio of 19.57/100,000, while Buriram has 143 (8.98/100,000) and Surin has 96 (6.87).
Youngsters have borne the brunt of the outbreak, with children aged 10-14 accounting for the largest number of infections, followed by the 5-9 age group and then the 15-24 age group.
The Disease Prevention and Control office in Nakhon Ratchasima has issued four recommendations for residents to combat the outbreak:
1. Monitor residents – especially young children and students – for symptoms. Investigate potential cases individually and carry out disease control in line with Public Health Ministry measures.
2. Control and eradicate mosquito larvae breeding grounds around the house.
3. Keep houses clean and free of trash. Keep lids on water containers to prevent mosquitos laying their eggs.
4. Promote understanding that prevention of dengue fever begins in the home – family members must take care of themselves first.
